It was designed by Aarne Hytönen and Risto-Veikko Luukkonen[1] and built in 1935 as Messuhalli[2] (Exhibition Hall).

[2] During the Olympics gymnastics, wrestling, boxing and weightlifting events as well as the basketball finals were held at the venue.

In June 1966 the hot pitch used to fix the hall's roof caught fire.

The ensuing blaze almost destroyed the whole building but was eventually extinguished with the help of 175 firemen and the army, the latter of which kept the gathered crowds out of the way.

The hall is listed by Docomomo as a significant example of modern architecture in Finland.